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Nail biting; etiology, consequences and management.
1Research Center for Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Psychiatry, Hafez Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences
|January 30, 2013
Summary
Nail biting (NB) is a common behavioral issue that is difficult to resolve. Effective management requires addressing co-occurring conditions and educating families, as punishment is ineffective.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Medicine
- Dentistry
Background:
- Nail biting (NB) is a prevalent yet unresolved behavioral problem across multiple disciplines.
- Many children struggle to cease NB despite repeated attempts, causing distress for themselves and their families.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the prevalence, co-morbidities, education, counseling, and management strategies for nail biting.
- To highlight the complexities in managing NB beyond simple cessation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on nail biting.
- Analysis of co-morbidities, prevalence, and treatment approaches.
Main Results:
- Over 80% of children with NB exhibit co-morbid psychiatric disorders or stereotypic behaviors.
- More than half of parents of children with NB suffer from psychiatric disorders, primarily depression.
- Punitive measures are ineffective for managing NB.
Conclusions:
- Nail biting management necessitates a comprehensive approach, considering co-morbidities, antecedents, and consequences.
- Education for children, parents, siblings, and teachers regarding NB is crucial.
- Further clinical randomized controlled trials are needed for evidence-based behavioral and pharmacologic treatments.
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